In a passionate address at the Newark Municipal Council meeting, Jamar Youngblood highlighted the pressing issue of economic inequality faced by Black residents in Newark. Standing before city officials and community members, Youngblood introduced two influential books, both titled "The Black Tax," authored by a Black banker and a white historian. He emphasized the importance of understanding how race influences the perception of information, particularly regarding economic disparities.

Youngblood's remarks centered on alarming claims made in the books about property taxes and their impact on Black homeowners. He pointed out that, historically and currently, Black families often face over-assessment of their properties, a tactic he argues is designed to displace them from their neighborhoods. He cited troubling statistics: over the past five years, Newark's property taxes have risen nearly 15%, while water rates have surged by over 25%. Meanwhile, developers continue to receive tax breaks for projects that many long-term residents cannot afford.

The speaker urged the council to recognize that the city's growth appears to benefit outsiders rather than the residents who have lived there for decades. He warned that if these trends continue, Newark could mirror the experiences of cities like Brooklyn and Atlanta, where original residents have been pushed out due to rising costs.

Youngblood called for immediate action, proposing three steps to address these issues: suspending tax hikes in Black neighborhoods until a fair property reevaluation process is established, reassessing how tax abatements for developers shift the burden onto residents, and creating legislation to keep financial resources circulating within Black communities. He stressed that the community is not seeking charity but justice and protection from an economic system that often exploits them.

Concluding his remarks, Youngblood invoked a quote from Sun Tzu, urging the audience to recognize both their strengths and the external forces working against them. He challenged the community to reconsider their support for elected officials who lack a plan to address these systemic issues, leaving attendees with a call to action for greater civic engagement and awareness.